ERROL PARKER | Editor-at-large | Contact
The Derrimut factory fire has been voted the most liveable toxic blaze in the world. This accolade adds to Melbourne’s reputation, often hailed as one of the most liveable cities globally by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU).
The fire, which began with an explosion at a chemical factory on Swann Drive in Derrimut, has engulfed the area in toxic smoke, prompting authorities to warn residents to stay indoors. Despite the serious health risks, locals are finding ways to cope, even as metal drums filled with hazardous chemicals were catapulted into the air, posing a significant danger to the 180 firefighters on the scene.
South Yarra resident Sharon Thompson, a local self-described environmentalist, spoke to The Advocate via wireless telephone this morning.
“It’s rough out here, but compared to the smog in Beijing or the polluted rivers in Bangladesh, we’re still managing. Sydney only has the Cooks River [laughs] they call that polluted, don’t they? Hardly! Fish and turtles live in it.”
Melbourne’s history of top rankings by the EIU for urban quality of life, including its seven-year streak from 2011 to 2017 as the world’s most liveable city. The EIU assesses cities based on stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education, and infrastructure. While Vienna topped the list in 2024, Melbourne’s resilient spirit is shining through in this latest challenge.
Local truck driver Yogo Go-Rilla reflected on the new title in a short interview with our reporter.
“We’ve got a fire spewing chemicals, and it’s called ‘liveable.’ That’s Labor for you! Compare that to Sydney or Brisbane, where you’d probably be taxed for breathing in carcinogenic smog. Brisbane is just full of bogans and coward Victorians that moved up there in Covid. The most toxic thing in Brisbane is the men.”
As firefighters work tirelessly to control the blaze, which started at around 11.20am yesterday and was somewhat contained by 3.30 pm, the city’s major Western Freeway remains closed for health reasons. No injuries have been reported, and the community is taking necessary precautions.
Despite the gravity of the situation, Melburnians continue to embody their city’s renowned resilience. Back at a café in South Yarra, known as ‘Little Sydney’ to jealous locals, Sharon Thompson takes another sip of her $6 coffee.
“We’ve always prided ourselves on being the most liveable city. We have bikes and buses than run on rails called trams. You can get a meal cooked for you after 9pm and go out clubbing late. If it wasn’t for Collingwood and their mouthbreathing supporters, this place would be perfect.”
More to come.
